What is shiatsu?

Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on Japanese healing therapy.

It was developed in the early part of the 20th century and is a combination of Western medical knowledge and the ancient philosophy and diagnostic methods used in Oriental Medicine.

Shiatsu Therapy is based on your body’s natural energy flow. This energy is referred to as ‘ki’ in Japanese (pronounced ‘chi’) and is mapped according to the meridian system as used in Oriental Medicine.

The benefits of shiatsu?

Shiatsu can be used to treat and manage a wide range of health issues, including:

  • Back, neck and shoulder pain
  • Sports injuries
  • RSI
  • Asthma
  • Digestive issues, such as IBS, constipation, diarrhoea
  • Poor circulation
  • Depression, anxiety, insomnia, fatigue
  • Promotes relaxation
  • Strengthens the body
  • Headaches, migraines
  • Menstrual issues
  • Supports the body back to its natural balance
  • Pregnancy-related body aches, pains and imbalances
  • Post-natal recuperation from birth and breastfeeding

What happens in a shiatsu consultation?

Each treatment is designed to your specific needs. Different forms of diagnosis are used to find areas of excess (Jitsu) or deficiency (Kyo) include: palpation, tongue analysis, pulse (in an Oriental Medicine sense), and client medical history.

Your shiatsu therapist may apply pressure to different points of your body using their fingers, thumbs, palms, elbows or feet to activate your body’s ki or energy movement. Your treatment may also incorporate cupping, moxibustion, or magnet therapy.

It’s suggested you wear loose, comfortable clothing, as treatment often involves flowing stretches and gentle rotation of limbs. Shiatsu massage is usually done on a soft futon on the floor, but may be given in a sitting position or on a massage table.

For more information

At Balance2health, our shiatsu therapist is Greg Derwin.

To find out more or book in for a shiatsu treatment contact Greg on 0418 660 159 or by email.

Balance2health: dedicated to helping you feel better, look better and live better